At Complete Children’s Health, we’re often asked when parents should begin caring for their child’s teeth. The answer might surprise you—oral care starts well before that first little tooth makes an appearance. Establishing good dental hygiene early on helps lay the foundation for healthy teeth and gums as your child grows, and it’s easier than you might think.
From Three Months: Gums Need Love Too
Even before teething begins, your baby’s gums need gentle care. From around three months of age, we recommend using a clean, soft, damp cloth or a specially designed baby gum wipe to gently clean your baby’s gums after feeds. This simple routine helps reduce bacteria and sets the stage for lifelong oral hygiene. It also gets your baby used to having their mouth cleaned—something that will come in handy when teeth begin to appear.
When Baby Teeth Start to Arrive
Most babies begin teething around six months of age, though this can vary from child to child. As soon as the first tooth erupts, it’s time to introduce a baby toothbrush. Look for one with a small head and soft bristles, and use just a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).
Brush your baby’s teeth twice a day—morning and night—and focus especially on the bedtime brush. Milk and food residue left overnight can contribute to tooth decay, even in the earliest stages. At this age, brushing is entirely your responsibility as a parent or caregiver, and keeping it gentle and playful can help build positive associations.
Toddlers and Young Children: Encouragement and Routine
As toddlers begin to assert their independence, they may want to start brushing their own teeth. This is a fantastic step, but they’ll still need your help to make sure it’s done properly. A good rule of thumb is to supervise and assist with brushing until around the age of eight.
At this stage, switch to a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, and continue brushing twice a day. You can also introduce fun elements to keep them engaged—like colourful toothbrushes, songs, or brushing charts.
It’s also a good time to schedule your child’s first dental visit. We recommend seeing a dentist by their first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth coming through. Regular dental check-ups help catch any issues early and allow your child to become familiar with the dental environment in a calm, positive way.
A Healthy Smile Starts Early
Baby teeth might be temporary, but they play an important role in helping children chew, speak, and maintain space for adult teeth later on. Looking after these early teeth sets the stage for a lifetime of good oral health.
At Complete Children’s Health, we believe in supporting healthy habits right from the start. If you have any questions about teething, brushing, or your child’s dental development, don’t hesitate to speak with your dentist or GP for starters as we are all here to help keep those little smiles shining bright.